Sumi Jo, the renowned South Korean soprano whose vocal talents have been praised as “a divine blessing,” is set to be honored with France’s top accolade in the arts later this month, according to an announcement made by the Korean Cultural Center in Paris.
On May 26, Jo will receive the prestigious title of Commander in the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres—a top accolade within the French government’s three-levelOrder of Arts and Letters—during a special event at the Opéra Comique in Paris. This distinction honors those who have significantly impacted the arts both in France and internationally.
Although over ten South Korean individuals have been honored with one of the three distinctions—Knight, Officer, or Commander—Jo is part of an exclusive circle at the pinnacle level. Among previous honorees, notable figures such as conductor Chung Myung-whun stand out; he was bestowed the Commander rank back in 2011.
It is anticipated that the medal will be conferred by Fleur Pellerin, who served as the French-Korean former Minister of Culture. Initiated in 1957, this distinction recognizes individuals whose efforts have enhanced France’s global cultural impact.
Jo, who was born in 1960, began her career on the opera stage in 1986 with a performance as Gilda in “Rigoletto” at Teatro Verdi in Trieste, Italy. Since then, she has graced some of the most prestigious opera houses globally. She earned high praise from renowned Austrian conductor Herbert von Karajan for her exceptional vocal talents, which have been celebrated internationally over almost forty years.
France has consistently played a significant role in Jo’s professional journey. She has performed at numerous renowned venues across Paris such as the Opéra Garnier, Opéra Bastille, Théâtre du Châtelet, and Théâtre des Champs-Élysées.
Her impact goes further than just her performances. In 2024, Jo initiated the first-ever Sumi Jo International Vocal Competition held at the Château de La Ferté-Imbault in France’s Loire Valley—a singing contest abroad bearing the name of a South Korean performer for the very first time. This event drew over 500 participants hailing from 47 different nations.
This recognition goes beyond just a personal achievement,” stated Lee Il-yeol, who leads the Korean Cultural Center in Paris. “This occasion symbolizes a significant point where both France and the global community acknowledge the profound essence of Korean vocal arts and culture.
